For most, driving a motorcycle is a relaxing and freeing experience. However, as most motorcyclists know, riding a motorcycle can be extremely dangerous. The majority of the time, these dangers are not the biker’s fault, but rather the fault of other inattentive drivers on the roadway.
Here at Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima, we have witnessed far too many motorcycle wrecks where the motorcyclist did nothing wrong, but an inattentive driver caused a wreck — resulting in severe injuries to the motorcyclist. When operating a motorcycle, if a wreck occurs, the likelihood of suffering serious catastrophic injuries or death is high.
In most cases, the driver who caused the wreck does not have adequate insurance to cover the motorcyclist’s losses. This is why Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage is essential.
What is UM/UIM Coverage
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage protects you if you’re in an accident caused by someone with inadequate or no insurance. While liability insurance covers damage you cause to others, UM/UIM coverage steps in when the at-fault driver cannot cover your costs. This is particularly important for motorcyclists because injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident can be severe, leading to high medical expenses and lost income.
Why Basic Coverage Isn’t Enough
Many states have minimum insurance requirements. In Ohio, drivers are only required to have $25,000 in liability insurance coverage. That is not nearly enough coverage to cover the damages and losses that most motorcyclists face after a collision. Additionally, Ohio does not require drivers to carry any UM/UIM coverage.
Meaning, if you suffer serious injuries resulting in broken bones and time off from work, and the at-fault driver only has state minimum coverage, you could be facing a serious financial burden. Having adequate UM/UIM coverage allows extra protection and peace of mind from this stress.
How Do I Obtain UM/UIM Coverage?
Simply inform your adjuster that you would like to add this coverage to your existing plan. Most people who have auto policies already have UM/UIM coverage, but the key is having adequate coverage. Just as the state minimum for liability coverage is $25,000, most UM/UIM coverage plans start at $25,000.
In Ohio, you also cannot stack UIM coverage on top of whatever compensation is awarded from the at-fault driver. Meaning, if the at-fault driver only has $25,000 and you carry $25,000 in UIM coverage, you will not be able to recover the $25,000 from your policy. They will cancel each other out. However, if you have $250,000 in UIM coverage, you will be able to recover an additional $225,000 from your UIM policy.
We urge each motorcycle rider have at least $500,000 in UM/UIM coverage and recommend $1 million in UM / UIM limits to make sure you are fully protected.
Final Thoughts
Riding a motorcycle offers freedom and adventure but comes with serious risks. UM/UIM coverage is a sure way to ensure that if something happens you will be able to afford the necessary medical treatment and protect you and your family financially.
At Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima, we pride ourselves on having an experienced team that has had handled complex motorcycle cases and have navigated liability and UM/UIM insurance coverage. We work tirelessly to obtain the justice and results that our clients rightly deserve. If you need representation, please contact us today for a free consultation.